State of Ohio Joins Verizon Wireless to Collect Phones for Victims of Domestic Violence
COLUMBUS, OH — The State of Ohio has joined forces with Verizon Wireless in an effort to put used wireless phones to good use in helping victims of domestic violence. Various state agencies, county sheriffs offices, local police departments and domestic violence shelters are serving as collection points for individuals to drop off used wireless phones which will be recycled through the Verizon Wireless HopeLineSM Program and then given to victims of domestic violence to be used in emergency situations. The Office of Criminal Justice Services is coordinating the phone drive that runs through mid November.
"The state and law enforcement agencies will greatly enhance our HopeLine Program by providing convenient locations throughout Ohio where used phones can be dropped off for this recycling effort," said Roger Tang, regional president for Verizon Wireless, Ohio/Pennsylvania Region. "Since launching HopeLine in 2001, Verizon Wireless has recycled and distributed thousands of phones to shelters in Ohio. These phones can be a lifeline for those threatened by domestic violence."
A HopeLine phone recycling box will be available within the participating agencies' offices for individuals to donate phones they no longer use.
Verizon Wireless, which has been recycling phones locally for several years, launched its HopeLine program nationwide in 2001. This national phone-recycling program, exclusive to the company, directly benefits victims of domestic violence. Used phones may also be dropped off at any Verizon Wireless Communication Store. Wireless phones and equipment donations are tax deductible and receipts will be available for anyone making a donation. More information about HopeLine is available by calling 1-800-426-2790.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications. The company has the largest nationwide wireless voice and data network and 34.6 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com.
About the Office of Criminal Justice Services
OCJS is the lead justice planning and assistance agency for the state. Through its research, grants administration and programmatic initiatives, OCJS serves agencies and communities committed to reducing and preventing crime across Ohio.
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